Loose knots are acceptable unless you can push them out. Knots on fingers and rabbet ears are acceptable. Knots in hand holds are acceptable ½ the thickness or more can be missing from the top or bottom of the board as long as it remains a functional board. Sides and ends with hand holes slightly off center are acceptable.
With the 9 5/8" Unassembled Budget Hive Body 8 Frame use 9 1/8" Frames and 8 1/2" Foundation.